Finding Your Own LSAT Prep Strategy
There are a number of ways to devise an LSAT test prep strategy. Use this guide to find the way that
suits you best.
You can prepare with test prep books, traditional classroom courses, accelerated and “crash” courses, online
courses and private tutors. You can spend a great deal of time and money preparing for the LSAT. Which approach works best for you?
To figure out
your own LSAT test prep strategy, consider your budget, personal preferences, work habits, test timeline, learning style, where you
live, family commitments and work schedule. For example, do you learn best with the structure and group environment of a
classroom? Is your workplace conducive to online courses?
For LSAT test takers who have been out of school and working, you will need extra time just getting used to taking tests. This was true
for me. I had not taken a test in many years and needed some time to get used to taking tests in general.
Keep in mind that you can use multiple ways to prepare for the LSAT, not just one.
The most important action towards improving your LSAT score is to practice, practice, practice. Practice increases your speed which
is a critical component of achieving a good LSAT score.
LSAT Test Prep Books
Buy at least one LSAT test prep book that provides strategies for solving problems quickly. These benefit everyone preparing
for the LSAT. Here are
links to top-selling books.
LSAT Practice Tests
Everyone should
order practice LSAT tests from the LSAC.
Practice tests from other sources are
not actual tests and are
not recommended because the LSAC does not license
LSAT tests to other companies.
The price of LSAT practice tests is a bargain. Last I checked, the
LSAC
website, a set of 10 tests is only $19.95.
Make a photocopy of each original LSAT test you get from the LSAC. Take the tests using the photocopies. That way, you can take each
practice test more than one time. Taking a test multiple times helps increase your test-taking speed. And like I keep saying throughout
this site, speed is a critical component of achieving a good LSAT score.
Practice tests work great for people who have the self-discipline to repeatedly sit down and work through stacks of old
LSAT practice tests after long days of work and on weekends.
Practice tests also are excellent when your family, home or work schedule does not facilitate attending regularly
scheduled LSAT prep classes.
I so much believe in taking old LSAT tests for practice, I have more detailed info about
taking LSAT practice tests.
LSAT Test Prep Classes
Options abound when it comes to LSAT test prep classes. There are instructor-led classes, self-study classes, online classes,
software-based courses, bootcamps, short workshops, LSAT coaching, and combinations therein ad nauseum.
Some people especially like the LSAT test prep classes. Classroom prep courses are suited to people who benefit from a
defined schedule, group motivation, or a structured apporach. For some people, paying for and enrolling in a class is a
necessary step. Many classes are held on weeknights, but weekend classes are also available.
However, classes are expensive. Expect to pay more than $1000 for a full course. Shorter courses with less classroom time are
cheaper, but do not cover as much material.
There are lots of LSAT test prep classes from national firms as well as local ones. Use this Google search box because
it can be the best way to find lower-cost, local and regional providers of classes. Sometimes, too, incentive discounts will
be in your search results.
I used to provide links to leading providers, but this custom search is more effective because of
the local and regional classes that Google is able to serve up to you.
Online LSAT Prep Courses
Online classes vary. They have different amounts of content. Some online LSAT prep courses include live instruction, while others are completely
self-directed.
Online courses offer the advantage of letting you take an LSAT prep class from different locations and different computers. Thus, they
benefit people who need the flexibility of taking the course both while at work and from home. For people with long commutes that
have internet access, online courses are a way to take an LSAT prep class during a commute to and from work.
LSAT Prep With a Private Tutor
Private LSAT test prep tutors are expensive. Thus, first prepare for the LSAT using the test prep approaches described above. Only
then when you understand where you need help the most, consider a private tutor.
You can find private tutors that work with you in person, online, or via telephone.
Also Relevant: Quick Facts About the LSAT
LSAT Exam Dates
LSAT Practice Tests
